Cryopreservation

Cryopreservation is the method of choice not only for archiving mouse mutant models at the end of an experiment, but also to create a security back up during their development. Three key factors need to be considered in cryopreservation: why, when, and how. In this chapter, we intend to discuss these factors and to provide an overview of current cryopreservation techniques. We will also refer to some experimental approaches that may become used more widely in the future. We will try to highlight advantages and disadvantages of each method with regard to investment in equipment, skills and technical limitations, and also review factors that compromise the efficiency in each approach. Finally, we will compile specific protocols for freezing mouse spermatozoa and embryos.